"Unofficial... With racists and slavers on the loose..." Irmiel "tsk-ed" skeptically. "Not to mention, that unless we suddenly find heaps of gold in that ruins, it will take all our finances, we would not afford food for the road. Those soldiers said 15 is a good price? Do you think it makes sense to talk to the elf?"

She looked - still skeptically - towards the elf. "No, Lance said, Ey'sal even more expensive than usual. Besides, we already got some information for free. So, there are "legal" guides, there are creatures in the forest that need a platoon of soldiers to deal with and there is a dragon. One of the meanest types - the green one, and not even alone but with wyrmlings... Sweet." Irmiel drammed her fingers against the table for a few seconds thinking. Then, despite her own declaration, stood up and went to the elf, taking off her hood and bravely demonstrating all the half-elven features of her face.

"Greetings. Sorry to interrupt your meal but your name was given to us as someone who can help. I am Irmiel. Me and my group came here from Candlekeep as the agent of the Great Library to study a small area not far from Myth Drannor. To our surprise, what we thought to be a short walk for a couple of days, turns out to be a dangerous and lengthy expedition, requiring an experienced guide. Lance over there," she tilted her head towards the tavern owner, "mentioned you might take the job. Would you? He also said we might not be able to afford your service but maybe you can tell us something about the place?"

Ey'sal raises an eyebrow at Irmiel, then glances past her at the group.  He looks back to her, "I'm afraid I'm not particularly interested. Carvan's keep to the road, have more guards and are significantly safer than wandering through the wilds. Perhaps if the pay is very high I could reconsider. Perhaps around 60 gold a day might make me reconsider? And I know the way to Myth Drannor, but haven't been there since before the war, almost 4 years ago now, so...can't say what it looks like with a mountain having fallen on it." 

"I see Lance was right. Have a nice day, then." Irmiel returned to the group. "Nope, not affordable and not interested. Looks like the human is our only option."

"I don't think going into the city is going to get us a better rate."  Sistri sighs. "At least it's just 50 gold up front. But we're going to have to start finding something of value.  Surely there'll be something out there."  While she sounds hopeful, she isn't totally covincing.

After a moments pause she says, "I say we go with Stallock."

With the group having decided on Stallock, Sistri delivers him the good news.  He looks critically at the group, their bags and gear. "It's a rain forest here. Not tropical, but...wet. You'd do well to get some water proofed gear. For about 30 gold a-piece, you can get waterproofed ponchos, and tents that won't leak when they get a bit damp. I recommend 'em, but...up to you. We can probably get it from the traders store right here without goin into town. Otherwise, when you wantin' to leave? Where we headed?"

Sistri nods to Stallock, "Thank you for the advice on the water-proofed gear.  We'll get that first and then..."  She hesitates a moment, looking back at the other group members. "Should we just get going today, even if we only get a short bit of travel? And of course, presuming you would be ready to leave today, sir."  This last she directs back to Stallock. 

"As for a destination, where we want to go is north of Myth Dranor. We had found something that led us to try to find a particular location."  She pauses again, not sure how much she should say. 

Llwyd thought about asking Sistri how knowledgeable were the guards, exactly, as both her and Kris returned to the table. He didn’t really understand the value of money and I only had a few coins, of which just four are gold, so he knew to be far from the best person to decide who to hire, but there he considered. They knew the guards from the area work in the forests and neither a satyr nor an elf are the kind of people anyone there was prone to like. On his eyes, there was a good chance that if they met any patrol the guards would try to rob them, which, to be fair, was unlikely to be that much of a problem, given the group’s abilities, but if a single one of those robbers were to escape Charlie’s Company would be chased by the entire military of the region and that would be a problem. One that they could, maybe, avoid by hiring the four soldiers. Not to mention that the like of Anna will be less likely to attack a group with accompany by law enforcers. I wouldn’t be surprised if she was planning to attack us with her friends. There was also the fact that they didn’t know how well Stallock could handle himself in battle. Danger is the only thing they could be certain to find during their journey and if their guide dies or bail on them they would not only have lost coin, but themselves amidst cursed lands. Not the best of prospects. Those four should have some training and last but not least, there was strength in numbers. Alas he took too long to voice any of that and the group settled on hiring Stallock and

“Also, I believe it would be useful for us to know how you fight, so we can include you on our battle strategies.” The druid asked the guide, deciding it was better to set his questions doubts aside.

Stallock raises an eyebrow at Llwyd, "Um, my understanding was that you were looking for a guide, not a warrior. But, if we do run into trouble....."  he puts his hand on the rapier at his side, "I find that it works to hit them with the pointy end."  He has another rapier on his back and is wearing leather studded with black pieces of steel.  "Anyway, I'm ready to go, just as soon as you pass over the upfront payment of 50 gold. I got nothin to wait for."

"Here," Irmiel counted 50gp from her far too think coin bag, and handed them to Stallock trying to not look suspicious. Not of the man, but, say, what would stop him to take the money and run away? Irmiel was the first one to curse bureaucracy but it did have the advantage of documenting agreements. "We can stop in that supply shop you mention, get the water-proof stuff and head to the ruins right after. As for our destination - this is the problem, we do not have an exact location, only the knowledge that it is north of Myth Drannor. Guess, we do not even have to enter the ruins at all?"

"Yes, water-proof gear would be appropriate.  Irmiel, you've got to protect your spellbook, don't you?  I imagine we would be up the river without a canoe if you lost it.  Isn't that the phrase?  I suppose we will soon find out!"  Kris chuckles.  "I propose we pool our coin to fund the purchase of items that would be best for the group, overall."

Stallock shrugs to the group, "Alrighty then. Let's go do a quick supply run, and then we can get outta here quick as we can."  His eyes slides across the group once more, assessing each person. He seems least satisfied with the girl with pink rimmed glasses and pink hair jutting out of her pulled up hood, but says nothing.  You pay for the food and drink and follow Stallock. 

Outside, you're pleased to find the rain has actually stopped. Thick dark grey clouds roil overhead, but a section is less dark than others and the warm hazy glow of the sun reaches through. The air is filled with warmth and moisture, the heat from glimpse of sun fills the air with yet more as it dries the world around you a bit. There's a distinct 'after rain' smell in the air that is rather pleasing. 

Stallock leads you across the small outer village outside of Hillsfar, over to a place called "Martens Trading Post", in which you find a large store packed with all manner of goods. Stallock heads right up to the desk, "Hey Shelly. Can we get four ponchos, and two tents?"  

The woman there, a middle aged lady with a seasoned look about her nods, "Sure thing Stallock. You takin these folks into the wood?"   

Stallock looks at the group, wondering how cagey they want to be, then shrugs, "S'ppose so. Should only be gone a week or so though hopefully. Any news I didn't pick up at the tavern already?" 

She nods, "Yeah, the Oak Regiment is back in town for a stint. That means you won't be runnin into any patrols. But, the criminals know this too, so...watch yerself on the main roads."  

He smiles back at her, a hunters smile, "Got it, thanks. I saw some squad members round, so figured as much." 

(30 gold * 4 = 120 gold for supplies please. That'll include 10 days of rations each and water skins, tents, and ponchos.) 

As you guys find ways to strap the new equipment onto your backpacks, and pay up, Stallock and the woman talk about her family back in town and a bit of local politics. Some news about some trading families making moves within the city. Once you're ready to go, your guide picks up his own heavy looking bag and nods, "Alright, let's see how far we can get with what's left of the day. I don't think you should get any pack animals for what it's worth. Carry what you need. Don't take what you don't need." 

He leads you out to the crossroads. There is a road that leads in each cardinal direction. “Dales via Cormanthor Forest” (South), “Elventree” (East), “Ruins of Yulash” (West) and “Hillsfar” (North).  

He seems to consider the south or west roads for a moment before turning west and leading you that way.  As you leave the small village you find a pleasant road that stretches through fenced farmland. The fields look full of numerous hardy crops that can grow in the short growing seasons here in the north, including potatoes and wheat, but also pumpkin and other squashes, carrots and other root vegetables. As the traffic on the road quickly thins out Stallock says, "I figure if you want to be north of Myth Drannor, we should come at it from the north side. If we take the road south, the best ways into towards the ruins come from the south. And they're all patrolled by the elves who ...dissuade visitors into the area.  There's some good paths south through the woods we can take." 

The hours of the day begin to pass slowly as you walk a brisk pace, along the rather pleasant road through farmland nestled between the forest miles to the south, and the shore of the Moonsea miles to the north. Both are far out of site and all you can see as you walk are the rolling farmlands and grass fields. As the light begins to wane, Stallock seems satisifed by the pace and says, "We should be able to make The Stop by early evening. It was a small hamlet that serviced caravans one day out from Hillsfar. But during the rise of the cult of the dragon a few years ago, the great green dragon that resides in the area, Verdant Cloud, had a mate named Vorgansharax, also known as the Maimed Virulance.  The great green flew across the Moonsea to Phlan...the location of the Pools of Radiance, and killed most of the leaders of the city and took over. The city was eventually won back, but refugees from the battles fled here, and have moved into many areas in the region. Those that aren't human are forced to steer clear of Hillsfar, and have settled at The Stop or in Elventree, though are not particularly welcome in either location." 

As the light is fading from the sky and the warmth of the air departs, leaving the moisture to turn into an uncomfortable chilling cold around you, you eventually come to a town that looks to be in rough shape. You'd figure criminal elements are well positioned here. You also see what look like non-human adventurers sprinkled amidst the crowds of people, though they look no more experienced than you when you get close enough to see. The town itself is a sprawling affair, full of ramshackle fencing and hastily assembled homes. There is a keep off to one side you see near the middle. A stone building with two red plume outside it, but you see no patrols and little of their presence around town. It could be the light, but their plumes and uniforms seem less well kept and grubbier than the shining armor of those back near Hillsfar.  

Stallock glances at the town, "There's an Inn here that's run down, but...will do for a dry warm place to sleep. Or we can head past The Stop for an hour and camp off the side of the road. Up to you." 

When Stallock was responding to Llwyd's questions about fighting, Sistri listens carefully.  "We are hiring you to be a guide of course.  But it's always good to have some idea of the abilites of those at our sides.  Though hopefully we will not be pressed to fight.  Our intention is exploration, not fighting, if it can be avoided." 

As the waterproof supplies are purchased, Sistri gathers with the others to collect the necessary funds, then hands them over to Shelly. Once ready to head out, she puts on one of the ponchos.  Along the way, once Stallock starts to talk more about the route, Sistri offers. "I'm afraid the information we have is limited and might take some searching.  But the description we found said '3 miles north of Myth Drannor, great tree home, main foyer'.  That is what we are looking for." 

The rest of the time traveling, Sistri is happy to idly chat with the others. And Stallock as well, as much as he's willing.  As the group approaches the town, she looks to the other three.  "Do you want to stay in the inn?  I think we'd be just fine to head on past and camp."

Irmiel assured Kris that magical books are quite protected from the common dangers (otherwise, there will never be a single travelling wizard) but food and bodies did need some protection. Hence, the visit to the store.

The skeptical looks of their new guide Irmiel ignored - first, it was expected from a Hillsfar's human, and second, she was quite suspicious too. The chatter between him and Shelly did not help much to dissuade that suspicion, but eventually, Stallock managed to touch the subject dear to the heart of any mage and suspicions were forgotten. "Verdant Cloud ... They sure like the flashy names. We heard she is not alone but has kids. Not the best neighbour for the city. Any problems so far? I take it she did not try to avenge the death of her mate? Or did I get it all wrong and she is in good relations with all people around here?"

The question of where to settle down for a night Irmiel saw as an annoying interruption of a really interesting conversation but eventually chimed in. "We might as well begin to learn to sleep outside. Maybe it's even better that we are not that far from civilization (as light as the term can be applied here) in case it proves to be problematic. I say, we press on."

As Stallock answered his question, Sistri reaffirmed his reason, albeit in a far more optimistic reason. The satyr was satisfied to know the guide was capable of fighting at short range. This way, should he decided to take to the rear guard with Irmiel the frontline of the group would not be weakened. He remained silent as they bought the necessary equipment and focused his mind into remembering as much of their way as possible. The talk about dragons was interesting, he imagined even the ancient ones would pale in comparison to the ghost of Candlekeep. It was the question about where to stop for the night that brought the druid to words.

“I also vow for camping.” He said after paladin and wizard. If they could do something to reduce their risks then it was probably the best choice. After all, most often than not, there is no such thing as being too careful. “No offense to you, Stallock, but it would be more prudent of us to avoid the local folk if we can.” He then stopped for a moment to ponder. “If we decided for camping we should think about a watching order for the night. I can take any turn you want.” Llwyd mentioned to the others, waiting for their answers.

Stallock nods to the group, "Suit yourselves. If it's of any comfort, I'd also rather camp outside than visit the Inn here."  

The guide leads you away from the village called "The Stop". In the dying light of the evening, the group of 5 travellers head down the road to the West. The land past The Stop becomes less settled. The land of fenced farmlands and grazing fields are behind you now and untamed grasslands stretch to either side. The light is all but gone when Stallock leads you off the road and through some tall grass before picking a seemingly random spot to camp. He begins walking around in the dark, stomping on the long grass, trying to press the stalks into a relatively subdued state. Then he pulls out a lantern and lights it to illuminate the spot.  Bugs zip about in the light, several moths fluttering forward to try and become one with the flame.

The group sets up their tents, spending a bit more time stomping the poking, thick stalks down so that you're sleeping pads won't feel like their set upon several dozen short spears. 

Stallock says, "If you're so inclined, I'm happy to take a watch as well."

Let me know your evening camp routine, your standard watch order, your individual watch "routine", and morning routine for your travels.

"Sleeping outside??  Yes!!" Kris practically roars in excitement from beneath the hood of her poncho.  Clearly she is living for this outdoor adventuring stuff.

As they settle down, Kris nibbles on a ration and admires the glow of the lantern.  She is less admirable of the many bugs that have come to join them, but doesn't voice her displeasure.  There's too many other things to enjoy.  The chirp of insects, the open night sky.  She picks Stallock's brain about his choices.  "How did you decide on this spot?  Why not over there?  Should we have a fire?  What foods are best for long travels?"

(Kris needs a standard long rest, but the order doesn't matter.  We can go in alphabetical order unless there's reason to do otherwise).

Stallock shrugs, "The ground is slightly higher here, which means if we get any rain tonight, the ground should stay dry enough. There's also a slight rise between us and the road, so hopefully that'll shield any light from our camp, though...realistically that's pretty tough in the open grasslands. Otherwise, spot is same the much as any elsewhere. Well, except I also heard a creek ahead about fifty feet. So, fresh water will be easy to get. Oh, and there's a lot of devil's plaything in the grass around here, this spot seemed pretty clear of it. Mostly an annoyance, but I hate gettin stung by that stuff.  It's the one that has little seedling sacks in rows just beneath the leaves, which look innocent enough but are full of nettle venom." 

This explanation seemingly 'enough' for him, he sniffs at the air, "The weathers been mixed lately. You should all expect rain before morning." 

It was educational and even interesting to see a ... ranger?... (Irmiel vaguely remembered something about wood scouts being called like that) at work. She did not plan to join the ranks of the wood guides but listened with curiosity - there is no such thing as useless knowledge. "Might be safer if you also watch," nodded she to Stallock's suggestion. "I can take the darkest hours." The only truly useful thing from her ancestry was the ability to see in the dark. Irmiel often complained it was not the other magical ability - no need for sleep, but right now the darkvision seemed handier.

If Stallock allowed the campfire, she would light it up, but did not insist on one. It was a long and quite eventful day, so, the moment tents were raised and the watch hours set, she retired into one, repeating (in her mind) the spells she deemed useful. A good sleeping medicine even without a very new and tiresome experience as their march through the forest was for a scholar like her.

Sistri watches as Stallock tramps down the grass for them to set up a camp site.  She can't help but grin at Kris' enthusiasm.  Quickly she offers to help Irmiel with making a campfire, if Stallock allows.  Then she settles down to eat some of her rations. "Well, a decent start to our travels. I love this, being out in the natural world. Though I do prefer the forests."  She looks over to Stallock. "How long until we reach the forest? It won't be too long, will it?"

"I guess Irmiel should take the middle watch?  So, Kris then Llwyd first? Then Irmiel, myself, and Stallock?"  (Making the OOC suggestion an IC one!) Sistri looks around to see if anyone disagrees. "If I'm going to be up early for my watch I'd best get some sleep too."  She heads for the same tent Irmiel retired to.  "I presume you two are ok sharing the other tent?" she says to Kris and Llwyd. 

Stallock doesn't stop anyone from starting a fire. He watches them start one silently and without much concern. The grass and ground is wet enough that they're not going to start a big fire anyway.  Looking about, you're able to hack apart some small bushes to get enough fuel.  The fire that you get going is sluggish, resistant, and smoky, but eventually provides enough light and warmth that it feels like an authentic outing.

Stallock answers the questions directed at him thoughtfully, "The forest is due south of here, maybe half a days travel. But....the further we stay out of it the better. It will slow our journey and is more dangerous than these grasslands. I can take last watch, that sounds fine."  He doesn't have a full tent, but more of a lean to with some collapsing poles that he pulls out of his bag.  A sleeping mat and the lean to and soon he's down, and sleeping quietly.  Everyone else but Kris retires, leaving her sitting crosslegged on a tarp, occasionally pushing pokey grass stokes down under her butt as she looks around in the darkness.  Her excitement quickly fades though as the damp cold sets in, as does the boredom of being awake, by herself, out in the cold.  It doesn't help when a light rain begins to fall an hour into her watch. The two tents seem well made and waterproof, but Stallock wakes up, groans, and sets a tarp up covering the open areas of his lean to before going back to sleep.  Kris pulls her Poncho on and sits in the darkness as the sizzling sound of water hitting the fire slowly dims the light. 

5

It seems like an eternity, but eventually 2 hours pass and Kris goes and wakes up Llwyd. The Satyr's fur is all matted to one cheek he's been laying on as he blinks himself awake. The two switch spots with Llwyd slipping on his poncho and setting up a dry spot to sit while the drizzle falls from the night sky. 

2 

Llwyd, roll perception.